WO2019030919A1

WO2019030919A1 - Fuel cell unit structure, and method for controlling fuel cell unit structure

Info

Publication number: WO2019030919A1
Application number: PCT/JP2017/029207
Authority: WO
Inventors: 和弘 ▲高▼畑; 基柳沼
Original assignee: 日産自動車株式会社
Priority date: 2017-08-10
Filing date: 2017-08-10
Publication date: 2019-02-14
Also published as: JPWO2019030919A1; EP3667786A4; CN110998940B; US11316181B2; US20200203740A1; EP3667786B1; CN110998940A; EP3667786A1; JP6870739B2

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a fuel cell unit structure that can sufficiently improve power generation efficiency. [Solution] This unit structure for a fuel cell 100 includes a power generation cell 101M, a separator 102, a flow path portion 102L, a plurality of gas inflow ports, a plurality of gas outflow ports, and adjustment portions 201-203. The plurality of gas inflow ports (e.g., an anode-side first inflow port 102a, an anode-side second inflow port 102b, and an anode-side third inflow port 102c) allow gas to flow into the flow path portion 102L. The plurality of gas outflow ports (e.g., an anode-side first outflow port 102d, and an anode-side second outflow port 102e) allow gas to flow out from the flow path portion. The adjustment portions 201-203 adjust the amount of gas flowing through the plurality of flow paths. The adjustment portions 201-203 reduce variation in flow among the plurality of flow paths by adjusting the pressure loss in the flow path portion formed among the plurality of gas inflow ports or the plurality of gas outflow ports.

Description

Fuel cell unit structure and control method of fuel cell unit structure

The present invention relates to a unit structure of a fuel cell and a control method of the unit structure of a fuel cell.

BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, a fuel cell generates electricity by supplying gas to a power generation cell configured by sandwiching an electrolyte between a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode. It is desirable for the fuel cell to uniformly supply gas to the power generation cell to increase power generation efficiency. Then, the technique of supplying gas with respect to the whole surface of a power generation cell is known by offsetting the inlet and outlet of gas with respect to a power generation cell (for example, refer patent document 1).

JP, 2015-109225, A

In the configuration described in Patent Document 1, although the gas is supplied to the entire surface of the power generation cell, for example, the variation in the flow rate of the gas flowing in the central portion of the power generation cell and the flow of the gas flowing in the end portion of the power generation cell It is difficult to lower Therefore, it is difficult to sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell unit structure and a fuel cell control method capable of sufficiently improving power generation efficiency.

A unit structure of a fuel cell according to the present invention for achieving the above object has a power generation cell, a separator, a flow passage, a plurality of gas inlets, a plurality of gas outlets, and an adjustment unit. The power generation cell generates electric power by the gas supplied by sandwiching the electrolyte between the fuel electrode and the oxidant electrode. The separator is provided between the power generation cell and the power generation cell to separate adjacent power generation cells. The flow path portion is formed between the separator and the separator and includes a plurality of flow paths for supplying the gas to the power generation cell. The plurality of gas inlets allow the gas to flow into the flow passage. The plurality of gas outlets allow the gas to flow out of the flow passage. The adjustment unit adjusts the amount of the gas flowing through the plurality of flow paths. The adjustment unit reduces the variation in flow among the plurality of flow paths by adjusting the pressure loss of the flow path portion formed between the plurality of gas inlets or the plurality of gas outlets.

A control method of a unit structure of a fuel cell according to the present invention for achieving the above object comprises: supplying a gas from a gas inlet to a flow passage formed in the separator to a power generation cell held between separators; It is a control method of a unit structure of a fuel cell which generates gas by discharging gas from a gas outlet. In the method of controlling the unit structure of the fuel cell, the flow of the gas supplied from the gas inlet is divided into a main flow flowing through the flow path portion of the separator and a plurality of the flow in the same plane of the power generation cell. Dividing into at least two flows of the auxiliary flow flowing between the power generation cells and adjusting the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow to make the distribution of the gas in the same plane in the main flow uniform.

It is a perspective view showing a fuel cell of a 1st embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the fuel cell of FIG. 1 disassembled into a cover, a cell stack assembly and an external manifold. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cell stack assembly of FIG. 2 disassembled into an air shelter, an upper end plate, a stack and a lower end plate. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the stack of FIG. 3 disassembled into an upper module unit, a plurality of middle module units and a lower module unit. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the upper module unit of FIG. 4; FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the middle module unit of FIG. 4; FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the lower module unit of FIG. 4; FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing one of the cell units of FIGS. 5 to 7 in a disassembled state and another cell unit (configuration other than a metal support cell assembly) located below the one cell unit. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the metal support cell assembly of FIG. 8; FIG. 9 is a side view showing the metal support cell assembly of FIG. 8 in cross section. It is sectional drawing which shows a metal support cell assembly etc. It is a perspective view which shows the separator of FIG. 8 from the cathode side (The side which visually recognized the separator 102 from the upper direction similarly to FIG. 8). It is a perspective view which shows the separator of FIG. 12 partially. It is a perspective view which shows the separator of FIG. 8 from the anode side (The side which visually recognized the separator 102 from the downward direction unlike FIG. 8). It is a perspective view which shows the separator of FIG. 14 partially. It is a perspective view which shows the example which provided the auxiliary | assistant flow path as a component of an adjustment part. It is a cross-sectional view showing a central portion in a state in which the metal support cell assembly, the separator, and the current collection auxiliary layer are stacked, and providing an auxiliary flow path as a component of the adjustment portion in the central portion. It is a perspective view which shows typically the flow of anode gas in a fuel cell, and cathode gas. It is a perspective view which shows typically the flow of the cathode gas in a fuel cell. It is a perspective view which shows typically the flow of the anode gas in a fuel cell. It is a top view which shows typically the flow of the gas in the main flow path of a separator, and the flow of the gas in an auxiliary flow path from the cathode side. It is a top view which shows typically the flow of the gas in the main flow path of a separator, and the flow of the gas in an auxiliary flow path from the anode side. It is a perspective view which shows Example 1 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path regarding the fuel cell of 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows Example 1 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path. It is a perspective view which shows Example 2 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path. It is sectional drawing which shows Example 2 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path. It is a perspective view which shows Example 3 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path. It is sectional drawing which shows Example 3 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path. FIG. 21C is a top view schematically showing a configuration in which the adjustment unit of FIG. 21A to FIG. 23B is provided in the entire auxiliary flow channel (from the upstream side to the downstream side). FIG. 21C is a top view schematically showing a configuration in which the adjustment unit of FIGS. 21A to 23B is provided in a part (upstream and downstream) of the auxiliary flow channel. It is a perspective view which shows Example 1 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path of the separator regarding the fuel cell of 3rd Embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows Example 2 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path of the separator. It is a perspective view which shows Example 3 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path of the separator. It is a perspective view which shows Example 4 of the adjustment part provided in the auxiliary flow path of the separator. It is a top view which shows typically the structure which provided the adjustment part of FIG. 25A-FIG. 25D in all the auxiliary | assistant flow paths (from the upstream to the downstream). It is a top view which shows typically the structure which provided the adjustment part of FIG. 25A-FIG. 25D in a part (upstream and downstream) of an auxiliary flow path. It is a top view which shows typically the example 1 of arrangement | positioning of the flow-path part provided in the separator, and the supply part regarding the fuel cell of 4th Embodiment. It is a top view which shows typically the example 2 of arrangement | positioning of the flow-path part and the supply part which were provided in the separator. It is an upper side figure which shows typically the arrangement example 1 of the flow-path part and supply part (inflow port and outflow port) in a separator, and a main flow path and an auxiliary flow path. It is an upper side figure which shows typically the arrangement example 2 of the flow-path part and supply part (inflow port and outflow port) in a separator, and a main flow path and an auxiliary flow path. It is an upper side figure which shows typically the arrangement example 3 of the flow-path part and supply part (inflow port and outflow port) in a separator, and a main flow path and an auxiliary flow path. It is an upper side figure which shows typically the arrangement example 4 of the flow-path part and supply part (inflow port and outflow port) in a separator, and a main flow path and an auxiliary flow path.

Hereinafter, first to fifth embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In the drawings, the same members are denoted by the same reference numerals and redundant description will be omitted. In the drawings, the size and ratio of each member may be exaggerated to facilitate the understanding of the first to fifth embodiments, and may differ from the actual size and ratio.

In each of the drawings, arrows representing X, Y, and Z are used to indicate the orientations of members constituting the fuel cell. The direction of the arrow represented by X indicates the lateral direction X of the fuel cell. The direction of the arrow represented by Y indicates the longitudinal direction Y of the fuel cell. The direction of the arrow represented by Z indicates the stacking direction Z of the fuel cell.

First Embodiment
(Configuration of fuel cell 100)
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a fuel cell 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the fuel cell 100 of FIG. 1 disassembled into a cover 112, a cell stack assembly 100M and an external manifold 111. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the cell stack assembly 100M of FIG. 2 disassembled into an air shelter 110, an upper end plate 109, a stack 100S and a lower end plate 108. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the stack 100S of FIG. 3 disassembled into an upper module unit 100P and a plurality of middle module units 100Q and a lower module unit 100R. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the upper module unit 100P of FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the middle module unit 100Q of FIG. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the lower module unit 100R of FIG. FIG. 8 disassembles one cell unit 100T in FIGS. 5 to 7 and disassembles another cell unit 100T (configuration other than the metal support cell assembly 101) located below the one cell unit 100T. And FIG.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the metal support cell assembly 101 of FIG. FIG. 10 is a side view showing the metal support cell assembly 101 of FIG. 8 in cross section. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the metal support cell assembly 101 and the like. 12 is a perspective view showing the separator 102 of FIG. 8 from the cathode side (the side where the separator 102 is viewed from above as in FIG. 8). FIG. 13 is a perspective view partially showing the separator 102 of FIG. FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the separator 102 of FIG. 8 from the anode side (a side where the separator 102 is viewed from below unlike in FIG. 8). FIG. 15 is a perspective view partially showing the separator 102 of FIG. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the adjustment unit 200 provided in the auxiliary flow path. FIG. 17 corresponds to a cross-sectional view partially (crossing two metal support cell assemblies etc.) in a state where the metal support cell assembly 101, the separator 102 and the current collection auxiliary layer 103 are stacked.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the unit structure of the fuel cell 100 is such that the cell stack assembly 100M is sandwiched from above and below by an external manifold 111 for supplying gas from the outside and a cover 112 for protecting the cell stack assembly 100M. Configured.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cell stack assembly 100M sandwiches the stack 100S from the top and bottom by the lower end plate 108 and the upper end plate 109 to seal the cathode gas CG. It is covered and constituted by the shelter 110. The stack 100S is configured by stacking an upper module unit 100P, a plurality of middle module units 100Q, and a lower module unit 100R, as shown in FIGS.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, as shown in FIG. 5, the upper module unit 100P outputs the power generated by the cell unit 100T to the outside, as shown in FIG. A module end 105 corresponding to a plate is sandwiched from above and below. As shown in FIG. 6, the middle module unit 100Q is configured by sandwiching a plurality of stacked cell units 100T from above and below by a pair of module ends 105. As shown in FIG. 7, the lower module unit 100R is configured by sandwiching a plurality of stacked cell units 100T from above and below by the module end 105 and the lower current collector plate 107.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, as shown in FIG. 8, the cell unit 100T includes a metal support cell assembly 101 provided with a power generation cell 101M that generates electric power by the supplied gas, and a metal support cell adjacent along the stacking direction Z. A separator 102 for separating the power generation cell 101M of the assembly 101, a current collection assisting layer 103 for equalizing the surface pressure while forming a space for passing gas between the power generation cell 101M of the metal support cell assembly 101 and the separator 102, and a metal support A sealing member 104 is included which seals the edges of the cell assembly 101 and the manifold portion of the separator 102 to restrict the flow of gas. The current collection auxiliary layer 103 and the sealing member 104 are disposed between the metal support cell assembly 101 and the separator 102 adjacent to each other along the stacking direction Z due to their structures.

Here, according to the method of manufacturing fuel cell 100, metal support cell assembly 101 and separator 102 form a joined body 100U by annularly joining the respective outer edges along joining line V as shown in the center of FIG. Do. Therefore, the current collection auxiliary layer 103 and the sealing member 104 are disposed between the joined bodies 100U (the metal support cell assembly 101 and the separator 102) adjacent to each other along the stacking direction Z. That is, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 8, the current collection auxiliary layer 103 and the sealing member 104 are adjacent to the metal support cell assembly 101 of one joined body 100U and the one joined body 100U along the stacking direction Z. It arrange | positions between the separators 102 of 100 A of other joining bodies.

Hereinafter, the fuel cell 100 will be described for each configuration.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the metal support cell assembly 101 is provided with a power generation cell 101M that generates power using the supplied gas.

As shown in FIG. 9, the metal support cell assembly 101 is composed of a metal support cell 101N arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction Y and a cell frame 101W holding the metal support cell 101N from the periphery.

The metal support cell 101N is configured of a power generation cell 101M and a support metal 101V that supports the power generation cell 101M from one side. In the metal support cell assembly 101, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the power generation cell 101M is configured by sandwiching the electrolyte 101S between the anode 101T and the cathode 101U.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the anode 101T is a fuel electrode, and an anode gas AG (for example, hydrogen) and oxide ions are reacted to generate an oxide of the anode gas AG and to take out electrons. The anode 101T is resistant to a reducing atmosphere, transmits the anode gas AG, has high electrical conductivity, and has a catalytic action of causing the anode gas AG to react with oxide ions. The anode 101T is formed of a rectangular shape larger than the electrolyte 101S. The anode 101T is made of, for example, a cemented carbide in which a metal such as nickel and an oxide ion conductor such as yttria-stabilized zirconia are mixed. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the anode 101T has a thin plate shape and a rectangular shape.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the electrolyte 101S transmits oxide ions from the cathode 101U toward the anode 101T. The electrolyte 101S does not pass gas and electrons while passing oxide ions. The electrolyte 101S is formed in a rectangular shape. The electrolyte 101S is made of, for example, solid oxide ceramics such as stabilized zirconia in which yttria, neodymium oxide, samaria, gadoria, scandia and the like are solid-solved. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the electrolyte 101S is in the form of a thin plate, and has a rectangular shape slightly larger than the anode 101T. As shown in FIG. 10, the outer edge of the electrolyte 101S is refracted toward the side of the anode 101T to be in contact with the side surface along the stacking direction Z of the anode 101T. The tip of the outer edge of the electrolyte 101S is in contact with the support metal 101V.

The cathode 101U, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, is an oxidant electrode, which reacts electrons with cathode gas CG (eg, oxygen contained in air) to convert oxygen molecules into oxide ions. The cathode 101 U is resistant to an oxidizing atmosphere, permeates the cathode gas CG, has high electrical conductivity, and has a catalytic action of converting oxygen molecules into oxide ions. The cathode 101U is formed in a rectangular shape smaller than the electrolyte 101S. The cathode 101U is made of, for example, an oxide such as lanthanum, strontium, manganese or cobalt.
As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the cathode 101U has a thin plate shape and a rectangular shape as in the case of the anode 101T. The cathode 101U faces the anode 101T via the electrolyte 101S. Since the outer edge of the electrolyte 101S is bent toward the anode 101T, the outer edge of the cathode 101U does not come in contact with the outer edge of the anode 101T.

The support metal 101V supports the power generation cell 101M from the side of the anode 101T, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. The support metal 101V has gas permeability, high electrical conductivity, and sufficient strength. The support metal 101V is formed of a rectangular shape sufficiently larger than the anode 101T. The support metal 101V is made of, for example, a corrosion resistant alloy containing nickel or chromium, a corrosion resistant steel, or stainless steel.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the cell frame 101W holds the metal support cell 101N from the periphery. The cell frame 101W is formed in a thin rectangular shape. The cell frame 101W is provided with a pair of openings 101k along the longitudinal direction Y. The pair of openings 101k of the cell frame 101W each have a rectangular through hole, and are smaller than the outer shape of the support metal 101V. The cell frame 101W is made of metal and is insulated using an insulating material or a coating. The insulating material is formed, for example, by fixing aluminum oxide to the cell frame 101W. The metal support cell assembly 101 is joined to the cell frame 101W by joining the outer edge of the support metal 101V to the inner edge of the opening 101k of the cell frame 101W.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the cell frame 101 W is a circular extension (first extension 101 p, the first extension 101 p, The second extending portion 101 q and the third extending portion 101 r are provided. The cell frame 101W is provided with circular extending portions (the fourth extending portion 101s and the fifth extending portion 101t) extending in the surface direction from two places separated from the center of the other side along the longitudinal direction Y ing. In the cell frame 101W, the first extending portion 101p, the second extending portion 101q and the third extending portion 101r, and the fourth extending portion 101s and the fifth extending portion 101t separate a pair of openings 101k. , Alternately located along the longitudinal direction Y.

The cell frame 101W, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, includes an anode-side first inlet 101a, an anode-side second inlet 101b, and an anode-side third inlet 101c for passing (inflowing) the anode gas AG. The first extension portion 101p, the second extension portion 101q, and the third extension portion 101r are provided. The cell frame 101W is provided with an anode-side first outlet 101d and an anode-side second outlet 101e, through which the anode gas AG passes (outflows), in the fourth extending portion 101s and the fifth extending portion 101t. The anode-side first inlet 101a, the anode-side second inlet 101b, the anode-side third inlet 101c, the anode-side first outlet 101d, and the anode-side second outlet 101e of the anode gas AG are so-called manifolds .

In the cell frame 101W, as shown in FIG. 9, the cathode side first inlet 101f for passing (inflowing) the cathode gas CG is provided in the space between the first extending portion 101p and the second extending portion 101q. There is. The cell frame 101W is provided with a cathode-side second inlet 101g for passing (inflowing) the cathode gas CG in a space between the second extending portion 101q and the third extending portion 101r. The cell frame 101W is provided with a cathode side first outlet 101h through which the cathode gas CG passes (outflows), on the right side in FIG. 9 with respect to the fourth extending portion 101s. The cell frame 101W is provided with a cathode-side second outlet 101i for passing (outflowing) the cathode gas CG in the space between the fourth extending portion 101s and the fifth extending portion 101t. The cell frame 101W is provided with a cathode-side third outlet 101j that allows the cathode gas CG to pass (outflow), on the left side in FIG. 9 with respect to the fifth extension portion 101t. In the cell frame 101W, the cathode side first inlet 101f, the cathode side second inlet 101g, the cathode side first outlet 101h, the cathode side second outlet 101i and the cathode side third outlet 101j are of the cell frame 101W. It corresponds to the space between the outer peripheral surface and the inner side surface of the air shelter 110.

The separator 102 is provided between each power generation cell 101M and power generation cell 101M of the metal support cell assembly 101 to be stacked, as shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, to separate adjacent power generation cells 101M. .

The separator 102 is disposed to face the metal support cell assembly 101. The separator 102 has the same outer shape as the metal support cell assembly 101. The separator 102 is made of metal, and is insulated using an insulating material or a coating except for a region (flow passage portion 102L) facing the power generation cell 101M. The insulating material is formed, for example, by fixing aluminum oxide to the separator 102. In the separator 102, the flow path portion 102L is provided side by side in the longitudinal direction Y so as to face the power generation cell 101M.

In the separator 102, as shown in FIG. 8 and FIGS. 11 and 12, the flow path portion 102L extends the flow path extending along the gas flow direction (short side direction X) into the gas flow direction (short side). It is formed by arranging in the direction (longitudinal direction Y) orthogonal to the hand direction X). As shown in FIG. 11 to FIG. 15, the flow path portion 102L has a constant convex anode side protrusion 102y so as to protrude downward from the flat portion 102x in the plane of the longitudinal direction Y and the transverse direction X. Provided at intervals of The anode side protrusion 102y extends along the gas flow direction (short direction X). The anode-side protrusion 102 y protrudes downward from the lower end of the separator 102. As shown in FIGS. 11 to 15, the flow path portion 102L is provided with convex cathode side projections 102z at regular intervals so as to protrude upward from the flat portion 102x. The cathode side protrusion 102z extends along the gas flow direction (short direction X). The cathode side protrusion 102 z protrudes upward from the upper end of the separator 102. The flow channel portion 102L alternately provides the anode-side protrusions 102y and the convex cathode-side protrusions 102z along the longitudinal direction Y with the flat portion 102x therebetween.

In the separator 102, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 17, the gap between the flow path portion 102L and the metal support cell assembly 101 located below the flow path portion 102L is configured as a flow path of the anode gas AG. The anode gas AG flows from the anode-side second inlet 102b of the separator 102 shown in FIG. 14 through the plurality of grooves 102q shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 into the flow channel portion 102L on the anode side. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the separator 102 flows the anode side from the plurality of grooves 102q from the anode side first inlet 102a, the anode side second inlet 102b, and the anode side third inlet 102c, respectively. It is radially formed toward the road portion 102L. In the separator 102, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 17, the gap between the flow path portion 102L and the metal support cell assembly 101 located above the flow path portion 102L is configured as a flow path of the cathode gas CG. The cathode gas CG passes from the cathode side first inlet 102 f and the cathode side second inlet 102 g of the separator 102 shown in FIG. 12 to the cathode side beyond the cathode outer edge 102 p of the separator 102 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. Flows into the flow path portion 102L of the In the separator 102, as shown in FIG. 13, the outer edge 102p on the cathode side is thinner than the other portions.

As shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 12 and FIG. 14, the separator 102 has an anode side first inlet for passing the anode gas AG so as to be positioned relative to the metal support cell assembly 101 along the stacking direction Z. An anode side second inlet 102b, an anode side third inlet 102c, an anode side first outlet 102d, and an anode side second outlet 102e are provided. The separator 102 has a cathode side first inlet 102 f, a cathode side second inlet 102 g, and a cathode side first inlet 102 f for passing the cathode gas CG so that the separator 102 is positioned relative to the metal support cell assembly 101 along the stacking direction Z. One outlet 102h, a cathode side second outlet 102i, and a cathode side third outlet 102j are provided. In the separator 102, the cathode side first inlet 102f of the cathode gas CG, the cathode side second inlet 102g, the cathode side first outlet 102h, the cathode side second outlet 102i and the cathode side third outlet 102j The space corresponds to the space between the outer peripheral surface of the air conditioner 102 and the inner surface of the air shelter 110.

As shown in FIG. 8, the current collection auxiliary layer 103 forms a space for passing gas between the power generation cell 101 M and the separator 102, and equalizes the surface pressure to electrically connect the power generation cell 101 M and the separator 102. It assists in contact.

The current collection auxiliary layer 103 is a so-called expanded metal. The current collection auxiliary layer 103 is disposed between the power generation cell 101M and the flow path portion 102L of the separator 102. The current collection auxiliary layer 103 has an outer shape similar to that of the power generation cell 101M. The current collection auxiliary layer 103 is formed of a wire mesh in which openings such as rhombus are provided in a grid.

The sealing member 104 partially seals the gap between the metal support cell assembly 101 and the separator 102 to restrict the flow of gas, as shown in FIG.

The sealing member 104 is a so-called gasket having a spacer and a sealing function. The sealing member 104 is directed from the anode side inlet (for example, the anode side first inlet 102 a) and the anode side outlet (for example, the anode side first outlet 102 d) of the separator 102 toward the flow path on the cathode side of the separator 102. Thus, the anode gas AG is prevented from being mixed. The sealing member 104 is formed in a ring shape. The sealing member 104 has an inner peripheral edge of an anode side inlet (for example, the anode side first inlet 102 a) facing the cathode side surface of the separator 102 and an inner peripheral edge of the anode side outlet (for example, the anode side first outlet 102 d). Bond to The sealing member 104 is made of, for example, thermiculite having heat resistance and sealability.

The module end 105 is a plate for holding the lower end or the upper end of the plurality of stacked cell units 100T, as shown in FIGS.

The module end 105 is disposed at the lower end or the upper end of the plurality of stacked cell units 100T. The module end 105 has an outer shape similar to that of the cell unit 100T. The module end 105 is made of a conductive material that does not transmit gas, and is insulated using an insulating material or a coating except for a region facing the power generation cell 101 M and the other module end 105. The insulating material is configured, for example, by fixing aluminum oxide to the module end 105.

The module end 105 has an anode side first inlet 105a for passing the anode gas AG, an anode side second inlet 105b, and an anode side third so that the relative position is aligned with the cell unit 100T along the stacking direction Z. An inlet 105c, an anode side first outlet 105d, and an anode side second outlet 105e are provided. The module end 105 has a cathode side first inlet 105 f for passing the cathode gas CG, a cathode side second inlet 105 g, and a cathode side first so that the relative position is aligned with the cell unit 100 T along the stacking direction Z. An outlet 105 h, a cathode side second outlet 105 i and a cathode side third outlet 105 j are provided. In the module end 105, the cathode side first inlet 105f, the cathode side second inlet 105g, the cathode side first outlet 105h, the cathode side second outlet 105i and the cathode side third outlet 105j It corresponds to the space between the outer peripheral surface and the inner side surface of the air shelter 110.

The upper current collecting plate 106 shown in FIG. 5 is for outputting the power generated by the cell unit 100T to the outside.

The upper current collecting plate 106 is disposed at the upper end of the upper module unit 100P, as shown in FIG. The upper current collecting plate 106 has an outer shape similar to that of the cell unit 100T. The upper current collecting plate 106 is provided with a terminal (not shown) connected to an external current-carrying member. The upper current collector plate 106 is made of a conductive material that does not transmit gas, and is insulated using an insulating material or a coating except for the region facing the power generation cell 101M of the cell unit 100T and the part of the terminal. The insulating material is configured, for example, by fixing aluminum oxide to the upper current collecting plate 106.

The lower current collecting plate 107 shown in FIG. 7 is for outputting the power generated by the cell unit 100T to the outside.

The lower current collecting plate 107 is disposed at the lower end of the lower module unit 100R, as shown in FIG. The lower current collector plate 107 has an outer shape similar to that of the upper current collector plate 106. Lower current collector plate 107 is provided with a terminal (not shown) connected to an external current-carrying member. The lower current collector plate 107 is made of a conductive material that does not transmit gas, and is insulated using an insulating material or a coating except for the region facing the power generation cell 101M of the cell unit 100T and the terminal portion. The insulating material is formed, for example, by fixing aluminum oxide to the lower current collector plate 107.

The lower current collector plate 107 has an anode side first inlet 107a, an anode side second inlet 107b, and an anode side, which allow the anode gas AG to pass through so that the relative position is aligned with the cell unit 100T along the stacking direction Z. A third inlet 107c, an anode side first outlet 107d and an anode side second outlet 107e are provided. The lower current collecting plate 107 has a cathode side first inlet 107f for passing the cathode gas CG, a cathode side second inlet 107g, and a cathode side to allow the cathode gas CG to pass through in the stacking direction Z relative to the cell unit 100T. A first outlet 107h, a cathode side second outlet 107i and a cathode side third outlet 107j are provided. In the lower current collector plate 107, the cathode side first inlet 107f, the cathode side second inlet 107g, the cathode side first outlet 107h, the cathode side second outlet 107i and the cathode side third outlet 107j It corresponds to the space between the outer peripheral surface of the electric plate 107 and the inner side surface of the air shelter 110.

The lower end plate 108 holds the stack 100S from below as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

The lower end plate 108 is disposed at the lower end of the stack 100S. The lower end plate 108 has an outer shape similar to that of the cell unit 100T except for a part. The lower end plate 108 is formed by linearly extending both ends along the longitudinal direction Y in order to form an inlet and an outlet of the cathode gas CG. The lower end plate 108 is formed sufficiently thicker than the cell unit 100T. The lower end plate 108 is made of, for example, metal, and the upper surface in contact with the lower current collector plate 107 is insulated using an insulating material or a coating. The insulating material is formed, for example, by fixing aluminum oxide to the lower end plate 108.

The lower end plate 108 has an anode-side first inlet 108a, an anode-side second inlet 108b, and an anode-side first inlet 108a through which the anode gas AG passes so that the relative position is aligned with the cell unit 100T along the stacking direction Z. A three inlet 108c, an anode side first outlet 108d and an anode side second outlet 108e are provided. The lower end plate 108 has a cathode side first inlet 108 f, a cathode side second inlet 108 g, and a cathode side first inlet 108 f for passing the cathode gas CG so as to be positioned relative to the cell unit 100 T in the stacking direction Z. One outlet 108 h, a cathode side second outlet 108 i and a cathode side third outlet 108 j are provided.

The upper end plate 109 holds the stack 100S from above as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

The upper end plate 109 is disposed at the upper end of the stack 100S. The upper end plate 109 has the same outer shape as the lower end plate 108. The upper end plate 109, unlike the lower end plate 108, does not have a gas inlet and outlet. The upper end plate 109 is made of, for example, metal, and the lower surface in contact with the upper current collector plate 106 is insulated using an insulating material or a coating. The insulating material is formed, for example, by fixing aluminum oxide to the upper end plate 109.

The air shelter 110, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, forms a flow path of the cathode gas CG with the stack 100S.

The air shelter 110 covers from above the stack 100S sandwiched by the lower end plate 108 and the upper end plate 109, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. The air shelter 110 forms an inlet and an outlet for the cathode gas CG of the components of the stack 100S by the gap between the inner side surface of the air shelter 110 and the side surface of the stack 100S. The air shelter 110 is in the form of a box and opens at the bottom and part of the side. The air shelter 110 is made of, for example, metal, and the inside surface is insulated using an insulating material or a coating. The insulating material is configured, for example, by fixing aluminum oxide to the air shelter 110.

The external manifold 111 supplies gas from the outside to the plurality of cell units 100T, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

The outer manifold 111 is disposed below the cell stack assembly 100M. The outer manifold 111 has an outer shape that simplifies the shape of the lower end plate 108. The outer manifold 111 is formed sufficiently thicker than the lower end plate 108. The outer manifold 111 is made of, for example, metal.

The external manifold 111 has an anode-side first inlet 111a, an anode-side second inlet 111b, and an anode-side third inlet 111a through which the anode gas AG is passed so that the relative position is aligned with the cell unit 100T along the stacking direction Z. An inlet 111c, an anode side first outlet 111d and an anode side second outlet 111e are provided. The external manifold 111 has a cathode side first inlet 111f, a cathode side second inlet 111g, and a cathode side first so that the relative position is aligned along the stacking direction Z with the cell unit 100T that passes the cathode gas CG. An outlet 111h, a cathode side second outlet 111i, and a cathode side third outlet 111j are provided.

The cover 112 covers and protects the cell stack assembly 100M, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

The cover 112 sandwiches the cell stack assembly 100M together with the external manifold 111 from above and below. The cover 112 has a box shape and is open at the bottom. The cover 112 is made of, for example, metal, and the inner surface is insulated by an insulating material.

(Configuration of Adjustment Unit 200 Provided to Fuel Cell 100)
FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing an example in which auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 are provided as components of the adjustment unit 200. As shown in FIG. FIG. 17 shows a central portion in a state in which the metal support cell assembly 101, the separator 102 and the current collection auxiliary layer 103 are stacked, and a cross section showing a state in which the auxiliary flow passage T11 is provided as a component of the adjustment unit 200 in the central portion. It corresponds to the figure.

The adjustment unit 200 is configured by, for example, auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 formed of a space (air gap). The auxiliary flow path T11 or the like which is a component of the adjustment unit 200 is provided in the separator 102 as shown in FIGS. 12 to 15 in addition to FIGS. The auxiliary flow path T11 positioned at the right end of the flow path portion 102L on the left side of FIG. 16 is a flow path facing the end (right end) of the corresponding power generation cell 101M, and is the anode side second inflow port 102b or the cathode side. It corresponds to a flow path relatively close to the second outlet 102i. The auxiliary flow passage T12 positioned at the left end of the flow passage portion 102L on the left side of FIG. 16 is a flow passage facing the end (left end) of the corresponding power generation cell 101M, and is the anode side third inlet 102c or the cathode side. It corresponds to a flow path relatively close to the third outlet 102 j. The auxiliary flow path T12 positioned at the right end of the flow path portion 102L on the right side of FIG. 16 is a flow path facing the end (right end) of the corresponding power generation cell 101M, and is the anode side first inflow port 102a or the cathode side. It corresponds to a flow path relatively close to the first outlet 102 h. The auxiliary flow path T11 positioned at the left end of the flow path portion 102L on the right side of FIG. 16 is a flow path facing the end (left end) of the corresponding power generation cell 101M, and is the anode side second inflow port 102b or the cathode side It corresponds to a flow path relatively close to the second outlet 102i.

(Flow of gas in fuel cell 100)
FIG. 18A is a perspective view schematically showing the flow of the anode gas AG and the cathode gas CG in the fuel cell 100. FIG. FIG. 18B is a perspective view schematically showing the flow of the cathode gas CG in the fuel cell 100. FIG. 18C is a perspective view schematically showing the flow of the anode gas AG in the fuel cell 100.

The anode gas AG is supplied to the anode 101T of each power generation cell 101M through an inlet of each of the outer manifold 111, the lower end plate 108, the module end 105, the separator 102, and the metal support cell assembly 101. That is, the anode gas AG is distributed to the flow path on the anode side provided in the gap between the separator 102 and the metal support cell assembly 101 alternately stacked from the external manifold 111 to the upper end collector plate 106. Is supplied. Thereafter, the anode gas AG reacts in the power generation cell 101M, passes through the outlet of each component described above, and is exhausted in the state of exhaust gas.

As shown in FIG. 18A, the anode gas AG is supplied to the flow channel portion 102L across the separator 102 so as to intersect the cathode gas CG. 18C, the anode gas AG passes through the anode side first inlet 102a, the anode side second inlet 102b and the anode side third inlet 102c of the separator 102 located at the bottom of FIG. 18C, and the metal support cell assembly After passing through the anode-side first inlet 101a, the anode-side second inlet 101b, and the anode-side third inlet 101c of the fuel cell 101, the gas flows into the flow path portion 102L of the separator 102 positioned above FIG. It is supplied to the anode 101T of the power generation cell 101M of the support cell assembly 101. The anode gas AG after reacting at the anode 101T flows out from the flow path portion 102L of the separator 102 located in the upper part of FIG. 18C in the state of exhaust gas, and the anode side first outlet 101d of the metal support cell assembly 101. 18A passes through the anode side second outlet 101e, and is discharged to the outside through the anode side first outlet 102d and the anode side second outlet 102e of the separator 102 located at the lower side in FIG. 18C.

The cathode gas CG is supplied to the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M through an inlet of each of the outer manifold 111, the lower end plate 108, the module end 105, the separator 102, and the metal support cell assembly 101. That is, the cathode gas CG is distributed to the cathode-side flow path provided in the gap between the metal support cell assembly 101 and the separator 102 alternately stacked from the external manifold 111 to the upper end collector plate 106. Is supplied. Thereafter, the cathode gas CG reacts in the power generation cell 101M, passes through the outlet of each component described above, and is exhausted in the state of exhaust gas. The inlet and the outlet of the cathode gas CG in each of the above components are constituted by the gap between the outer peripheral surface of each component and the inner side surface of the air shelter 110.

In FIG. 18B, the cathode gas CG passes through the cathode-side first inlet 102f and the cathode-side second inlet 102g of the separator 102 located in the lower part of FIG. 18B and flows into the flow path portion 102L of the separator 102. , The cathode 101 U of the power generation cell 101 M of the metal support cell assembly 101. The cathode gas CG after reacting at the cathode 101U flows out from the flow path portion 102L of the separator 102 located below in FIG. 18B in the state of exhaust gas, and the cathode side first outlet 102h of the separator 102, It passes through the cathode side second outlet 102i and the cathode side third outlet 102j and is discharged to the outside.

The operation and effect of the first embodiment described above will be described.

The unit structure of the fuel cell 100 includes a power generation cell 101M, a separator 102, a flow passage 102L, a plurality of gas inlets, a plurality of gas outlets, and an adjustment unit 200. The power generation cell 101M generates electric power by the gas supplied by sandwiching the electrolyte 101S between the anode 101T and the cathode 101U. The separator 102 is provided between the power generation cell 101M and the power generation cell 101M to separate adjacent power generation cells 101M. The flow path portion 102L is formed between the

separators

102 and 102, and includes a plurality of flow paths for supplying a gas to the power generation cell 101M. The plurality of gas inlets (for example, the first anode side inlet 102a, the second anode side inlet 102b, and the third anode side inlet 102c) allow the gas to flow into the flow path portion 102L. The plurality of gas outlets (for example, the first anode side outlet 102d and the second anode side outlet 102e) allow the gas to flow out of the flow path. The adjustment unit 200 adjusts the amount of gas flowing through the plurality of flow paths. The adjustment unit 200 reduces the variation in flow among the plurality of flow paths by adjusting the pressure loss of the flow path portion formed between the plurality of gas inlets or the plurality of gas outlets.

The control method of the unit structure of the fuel cell 100 includes a gas inlet (for example, an anode side first inlet 102 a, an anode side second inlet 102 b, and an anode side third) in the power generation cell 101 M sandwiched between the separators 102. The gas is supplied from the inlet 102c) to the flow path portion 102L formed in the separator 102, and the gas is discharged from the gas outlet (for example, the anode side first outlet 102d and the anode side second outlet 102e) to generate power. This is a control method of the unit structure of the fuel cell 100. In the method of controlling the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the flow of the gas supplied from the gas inlet is divided into the main flow flowing through the flow path portion 102L of the separator 102 and the plurality of power generation cells in the same plane of the power generation cell 101M. Split into at least two streams of auxiliary flow between 101 M and adjust the pressure loss of gas in the auxiliary flow to make the distribution of gas in the same plane in the main flow uniform.

In the control method of the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, “within the same plane of the power generation cell 101M” indicates that a plurality of the power generation cells 101M are arranged so as to be arranged on the same separator 102. Further, in the control method of the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, to make the distribution of the gas in the same plane in the main flow uniform is to reduce the variation in the flow rate of the gas. The reduction in the variation of the gas flow rate means that the flow rates of the respective gases in the plurality of flow paths of the separator 102 are made close to the same flow rate by adjusting them to have the same flow velocity, pressure, density and the like. .

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100 and the control method of the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the variation in flow among the plurality of flow paths can be reduced. That is, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can uniformly supply the gas to power generation cell 101M. Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

In particular, the unit structure of the fuel cell 100 is configured as shown in FIG. 19 by adjusting the amount of gas supplied to the end of the power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12). The variation of the gas supplied to the central portion (for example, the portion facing the main flow path S11) of the power generation cell 101M and the end portion (for example the portion facing the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) of the power generation cell 101M can be suppressed. That is, the unit structure of the fuel cell 100 increases or decreases the gas flow (main flow) flowing through the central portion of the power generation cell 101M by controlling the gas flow (side flow) flowing through the end of the power generation cell 101M. It is possible to suppress the variation of the gas supplied to the central portion and the end portion of the power generation cell 101M. As a result, the unit structure of the fuel cell 100 can uniformly supply the gas to the central portion and the end portion of the power generation cell 101M. Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

Further, according to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, it is possible to prevent the partial shortage of the gas supplied to the power generation cell 101M and to suppress the decrease in the power generation performance. Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

Moreover, according to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, it is possible to prevent the gas supplied to the power generation cell 101M from being partially excessive, and to reduce the amount of the unreacted and flowed out gas. As the distribution variation of the gas supplied to the power generation cell 101M is smaller, it is possible to reduce the excess gas supply amount. By applying the configuration of the present embodiment, the distribution variation of the gas supplied to the power generation cell 101M is reduced by about 14% on the anode side and by about 12% on the cathode side. Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

Further, according to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, since the gas can be uniformly supplied to the power generation cell 101M, when the high temperature gas is supplied, the variation of the temperature distribution of the gas can be suppressed. it can. Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, it is preferable that the numbers of the plurality of gas inlets and the plurality of gas outlets be different.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the inlet (for example, the first anode side inlet 102a, the second anode side inlet 102b and the third anode side inlet 102c) and the outlet (for example, the second anode side) One outlet 102d and the anode-side second outlet 102e) are provided in an offset manner to equalize the pressure loss of the gas flowing through the plurality of flow channels, and to disperse the variation of each gas flowing through the plurality of flow channels. It can be suppressed. That is, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 is such that the amount of gas supplied to the end of power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) and the central portion of power generation cell 101M (for example, main flow path S11) The amount of gas supplied to the part) can be made uniform. Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 are formed between the facing surfaces of the plurality of power generation cells 101M by arranging the plurality of power generation cells 101M in the same plane on the adjustment unit 200. Is preferred.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 can be formed between the facing surfaces of the plurality of power generation cells 101M with a simple configuration.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, it is preferable to form an auxiliary flow passage T12 between the non-facing surface of at least one of the power generation cells 101M and the end portion of the cell frame 101W.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the amount of gas supplied to the auxiliary flow passage T12 between the non-facing surface of the power generation cell 101M and the end of the cell frame 101W is adjusted to be sufficient for power generation of the power generation cell 101M. Gas can be supplied to the central portion (for example, the portion facing the main flow path S11) contributing to the Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the adjusting unit 200 preferably adjusts the amount of gas flowing to the plurality of power generation cells arranged side by side.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the active area can be divided into smaller sections (the required active area is configured using the plurality of power generation cells 101M), and the variation in gas can be suppressed for each active area. Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

In the unit structure of fuel cell 100, adjustment unit 200 preferably adjusts the amount of gas flowing between adjacent power generation cells.

In addition, in the unit structure of fuel cell 100, adjustment unit 200 preferably adjusts the amount of gas flowing on at least one side of adjacent power generation cells.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, for example, the amount of gas supplied to the end of the power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) is adjusted to be sufficient for power generation of the power generation cell 101M. Gas can be supplied to the central portion of the power generation cell 101M contributing to the Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

Second Embodiment
In the fuel cell of the second embodiment, the flow of gas in the area of the active area is controlled by the adjustment units 201 to 203 shown in FIGS. 19 to 24B.

(Control of gas flow using adjustment units 201 to 203)
FIG. 19 is a top view schematically showing the flow of gas in the main flow path S11 of the separator 102 and the flow of gas in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 from the cathode side. FIG. 20 is a top view schematically showing the flow of gas in the main flow path S11 of the separator 102 and the flow of gas in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 from the anode side.

As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the pair of flow path portions 102L of the separator 102 respectively have a main flow path S11 and auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 facing the pair of power generation cells 101M (not shown).

Each main flow passage S11 located at the center of the pair of flow passage portions 102L in FIG. 19 corresponds to a flow passage facing the central portion of each of the pair of power generation cells 101M.

The auxiliary flow path T11 positioned at the right end of the flow path portion 102L on the left side of FIG. 19 is a flow path facing the end (right end) of the corresponding power generation cell 101M, and is the anode side second inflow port 102b or the cathode side. It corresponds to a flow path relatively close to the second outlet 102i. The auxiliary flow passage T12 positioned at the left end of the flow passage portion 102L on the left side of FIG. 19 is a flow passage facing the end (left end) of the corresponding power generation cell 101M, and is the anode side third inlet 102c or the cathode side It corresponds to a flow path relatively close to the third outlet 102 j.

The auxiliary flow path T12 positioned at the right end of the flow path portion 102L on the right side of FIG. 19 is a flow path facing the end (right end) of the corresponding power generation cell 101M, and is the anode side first inflow port 102a or the cathode side. It corresponds to a flow path relatively close to the first outlet 102 h. The auxiliary flow passage T11 positioned at the left end of the flow passage portion 102L on the right side of FIG. 19 is a flow passage facing the end (left end) of the corresponding power generation cell 101M, and is the anode side second inflow port 102b or the cathode side It corresponds to a flow path relatively close to the second outlet 102i.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view showing Example 1 of the adjustment unit 201 provided in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 in the fuel cell of the second embodiment. FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view showing Example 1 of the adjustment unit 201 provided in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. FIG. 22A is a perspective view showing an example 2 of the adjustment unit 202 provided in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view showing Example 2 of the adjustment unit 202 provided in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. FIG. 23A is a perspective view showing Example 3 of the adjustment unit 203 provided in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view showing Example 3 of the adjustment unit 203 provided in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. FIGS. 24A and 24B are top views schematically showing a configuration in which the adjustment units 201 to 203 are provided in specific portions of the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12.

The adjusting units 201 to 203 have, for example, the configurations shown in FIGS. 21A to 23B, and adjust the amount of gas flowing through the plurality of flow paths. The adjustment units 201 to 203 reduce the variation in flow among the plurality of flow paths by adjusting the pressure loss of the flow path portion formed between the plurality of gas inlets or the plurality of gas outlets.

The adjustment units 201 to 203 are provided in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 of the flow path portion 102L, as shown in FIG. The adjustment units 201 to 203 adjust the amount of gas flowing through the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12 to equalize the amount of gas flowing through the main flow passage S11 and the amount of gas flowing through the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12.

21A and 21B show an example 1 of the adjustment unit 201. FIG. The adjustment unit 201 is provided in the region of the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12 of the flow passage portion 102L of the separator 102. The adjustment unit 201 extends the anode side protrusion 102y in the direction of the gas flow in the region of the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 along the direction (longitudinal direction Y) orthogonal to the gas flow direction, thereby the anode 101T side of the power generation cell 101M. Partially reduce the cross-sectional area of the flow path. Thus, the adjustment unit 201 adjusts the cross-sectional area of the flow path on the anode side in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. The adjustment unit 201 partially increases or decreases the cross-sectional area of the flow path on the cathode 101U side of the power generation cell 101M by providing the sealing material 113 in the gap between the anode side protrusion 102y and the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M. . The sealing material 113 is made of, for example, thermiculite elongated along the flow path. Thus, the adjustment unit 201 adjusts the cross-sectional area of the flow path on the cathode side in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. By these adjustments, the adjustment unit 201 equalizes the amount of gas flowing through the main flow passage S11 and the amount of gas flowing through the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12 in the flow passage portion 102L of the separator 102.

22A and 22B show an example 2 of the adjustment unit 202. FIG. The adjustment unit 202 is provided in the region of the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12 of the flow passage portion 102L of the separator 102. The adjusting portion 202 extends the flat portion 102x without forming the anode-side protrusion 102y in the region of the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12, and then seals the gap between the flat portion 102x and the anode 101T of the power generation cell 101M. By providing 114, the cross-sectional area of the flow path on the anode 101T side of the power generation cell 101M is partially reduced. The sealing material 114 is made of, for example, thermiculite elongated along the flow path. In this manner, the adjustment unit 202 adjusts the cross-sectional area of the flow paths on the anode side in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. The adjustment unit 202 partially increases or decreases the cross-sectional area of the flow passage on the cathode 101U side of the power generation cell 101M by providing the sealing material 115 in the gap between the flat portion 102x and the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M. There is. The sealing material 115 is made of, for example, thermiculite elongated along the flow path. In this manner, the adjustment unit 202 adjusts the cross-sectional area of the flow path on the cathode side in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. By these adjustments, the adjustment unit 202 equalizes the amount of gas flowing through the main flow passage S11 and the amount of gas flowing through the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12 in the flow passage portion 102L of the separator 102.

An example 3 of the adjustment unit 203 is shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B. The adjustment unit 203 is provided in the region of the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12 of the flow passage portion 102L of the separator 102. The adjustment portion 203 extends the flat portion 102x without forming the cathode side protrusion 102z in the region of the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12, and then a spring member in the gap between the flat portion 102x and the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M. By providing 116, the cross-sectional area of the flow path on the cathode 101U side of the power generation cell 101M is partially increased or decreased. The spring member 116 is made of a thin plate metal. The spring member 116 is composed of a flat base material 116a and a plurality of elastically deformable upright pieces 116b which are formed so as to be cantilevered from the base material 116a. The adjusting unit 203 sets the shape and distance of the rising pieces 116 b of the spring member 116 to adjust the cross-sectional area of the flow path on the cathode side. In this manner, the adjustment unit 203 adjusts the cross-sectional area of the flow path on the cathode side in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12. By these adjustments, the adjustment unit 203 equalizes the amount of gas flowing through the main flow passage S11 and the amount of gas flowing through the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12 in the flow passage portion 102L of the separator 102.

The adjustment units 201 to 203 determine the range provided in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 of the separator 102 so that the pressure loss of the gas becomes a desired value.

As shown in FIG. 24A, the adjustment units 201 to 203 can be provided in all of the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 of the separator 102 (from the upstream side to the downstream side). Such a configuration is applied when it is necessary to relatively increase the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 of the separator 102.

As shown in FIG. 24B, the adjustment units 201 to 203 can be provided in a part (upstream and downstream, only upstream or only downstream) of the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 of the separator 102. Such a configuration is applied when it is necessary to relatively increase the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 of the separator 102.

The operation and effect of the second embodiment described above will be described.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the adjustment units 201 to 203 are provided with separate control mechanisms for adjusting the amount of gas in the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12.

The control mechanism controls the gas in such a way as to increase or decrease the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow passages T11 and T12.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, it is extremely easy to arbitrarily control the amount of gas in the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12 using separate members constituting the fuel cell 100. The adjustment units 201 to 203 are one example, and can constitute various control mechanisms.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, it is preferable to provide the adjustment units 201 to 203 at the end along the gas flow of the power generation cell 101M.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, for example, the amount of gas supplied to the end of the power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) is adjusted to be sufficient for power generation of the power generation cell 101M. Gas can be supplied to the central portion (for example, the portion facing the main flow path S11) contributing to the Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the adjusting units 201 to 203 include at least an inlet (for example, an anode-side first inlet 102a, an anode-side second stream) among a plurality of channels facing the anode 101T of the power generation cell 101M. The pressure loss of the gas flowing in a part of the flow paths (auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) relatively close to the inlet 102b and the anode side third inflow port 102c) is the gas flowing in the other flow paths (main flow path S11) It is preferable to configure so as to be larger than the pressure loss of

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the amount of gas supplied to the end of the power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) is adjusted so as not to become excessive. The gas can be uniformly supplied to the central portion (for example, the portion facing the main flow path S11) and the end portion of the power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12). Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the adjusting units 201 to 203 are relatively close to at least the inlets (for example, the first anode side inlet 102a, the second anode side inlet 102b, and the third inlet side 102c). Preferably, the cross sectional area of a part of the flow paths (auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) is smaller than the cross sectional area of the other flow paths (main flow path S11).

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell 100, the gas supplied to the end of the power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) is very easy to adjust the cross-sectional area of the flow path. The amount is adjusted so as not to be excessive, for the central portion of the power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing the main flow path S11) and the end of the power generation cell 101M (for example, the portion facing the auxiliary flow paths T11 and T12) Gas can be supplied evenly. Therefore, the unit structure of fuel cell 100 can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

Third Embodiment
The fuel cell according to the third embodiment is different from the fuel cell according to the third embodiment in that the flow of gas in the area away from the active area corresponding to the area of the power generation cell 101M is controlled by the adjustment units 401 to 404 shown in FIGS. It differs from the fuel cell of the second embodiment. In the second embodiment described above, the flow of gas in the region of the active area is controlled by the adjustment units 201 to 203 shown in FIGS. 21A to 23B.

The adjustment units 401 to 404 shown in FIGS. 25A to 25D are convex portions 301s in regions located between the pair of flow passage portions 301L of the separator 301 (auxiliary flow passages T63 to T93 shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B). It comprises by providing ~ 304s. That is, the adjustment units 401 to 404 are provided in portions of the separators 301 to 304 not facing the power generation cell 101M. The auxiliary flow paths T63 to T93 shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B are at least an inlet (for example, a cathode side first inlet and a cathode side second inlet) among a plurality of flow paths facing the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M. Corresponds to a part of the flow path relatively close to the The adjustment units 401 to 404 mainly control the flow of the cathode gas CG in the auxiliary flow paths T63 to T93 shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B, which are areas separated from the active area where the power generation cells 101M exist.

25A shows an example 1 of the adjustment unit 401 provided in the auxiliary flow passage T63 of the separator 301. FIG. The adjustment unit 401 is configured of a convex portion 301 s formed in a region (auxiliary flow passage T 63) located between the pair of flow passage portions 301 L of the separator 301. The convex portion 301s has a rectangular protrusion having a through hole along the gas flow direction (the short direction X), each half pitch along the direction (longitudinal direction Y) orthogonal to the gas flow direction. They are formed in a row along the short direction X while being alternately shifted. The convex portions 301s are provided in a pair along the direction (longitudinal direction Y) orthogonal to the direction of gas flow. By adjusting the shape of the convex portion 301s, the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow passage T63 can be arbitrarily set. The adjusting unit 401 may configure the convex portion 301 s as a member separate from the separator 301, and may be joined to the auxiliary flow path T 63 of the separator 301.

FIG. 25B illustrates an example 2 of the adjustment unit 402 provided in the auxiliary flow passage T73 of the separator 302. The adjustment unit 402 is configured of a convex portion 302 s formed in a region (auxiliary flow passage T 73) located between the pair of flow passage portions 302 L of the separator 302. The convex portion 302s is in the shape of an elongated rectangular solid along the direction of gas flow (the short direction X). The convex portion 302 s can arbitrarily set the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow passage T 73 by adjusting the shape. The convex portion 302s is easily formed on the separator 302 by press processing or the like. The adjusting unit 402 may configure the convex portion 302 s as a member separate from the separator 302 and may be joined to the auxiliary flow passage T 73 of the separator 302.

FIG. 25C shows Example 3 of the adjustment unit 403 provided in the auxiliary flow passage T83 of the separator 303. The adjustment unit 403 is configured by a convex portion 303 s formed in a region (auxiliary flow passage T 83) located between the pair of flow passage portions 303 L of the separator 303. The convex portion 303 s has a rectangular shape elongated along the direction (longitudinal direction Y) orthogonal to the direction of the gas flow. A plurality of convex portions 303 s are provided at regular intervals along the gas flow direction (short direction X). The convex portion 303s can arbitrarily set the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow passage T83 by adjusting the number, the interval, and the shape. The convex portion 303s can easily maintain its shape when the temperature of the separator 303 becomes high. The adjusting unit 403 may constitute the convex portion 303 s as a member separate from the separator 303 and may be joined to the auxiliary flow passage T 83 of the separator 303.

FIG. 25D shows an example 4 of the adjusting unit 404 provided in the auxiliary flow passage T93 of the separator 304. The adjustment unit 404 is configured by a convex portion 304 s formed in a region (auxiliary flow passage T 93) located between the pair of flow passage portions 304 L of the separator 304. The convex portion 304s has a cylindrical shape. A plurality of convex portions 304s are formed in a lattice shape along the direction of the gas flow (the short direction X). The convex portion 304s can arbitrarily set the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow passage T93 by adjusting the number, the interval, and the shape. The convex portion 304 s can easily maintain its shape when the temperature of the separator 304 is high. The convex portions 304 s can be easily formed with different configurations (number, interval, and shape) on the anode side and the cathode side of the separator 304. The adjustment unit 404 may configure the convex portion 304 s as a member separate from the separator 304, and may be joined to the auxiliary flow path T 93 of the separator 304.

The adjustment units 401 to 404 shown in FIGS. 25A to 25D determine the ranges provided in the auxiliary flow paths T63, T73, T83, and T93 of the separators 301 to 304 so that the pressure loss of the gas becomes a desired value. .

As shown in FIG. 26A, the adjustment units 401 to 404 can be provided in all of the auxiliary flow paths T63, T73, T83 and T93 of the separators 301 to 304 (from the upstream side to the downstream side). Such a configuration is applied when there is a need to relatively increase the pressure loss of gas in the auxiliary flow paths T63, T73, T83 and T93 of the separators 301 to 304.

As shown in FIG. 26B, the adjusting units 401 to 404 can be provided in part (upstream and downstream, only upstream or only downstream) of the auxiliary flow paths T63, T73, T83 and T93 of the separators 301 to 304. Such a configuration is applied when it is necessary to relatively reduce the pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary flow paths T63, T73, T83 and T93 of the separators 301 to 304.

The operation and effect of the third embodiment described above will be described.

The unit structure of the fuel cell is, for example, relative to at least the inlets (for example, the cathode side first inlet and the cathode side second inlet) among the plurality of flow paths facing the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M in the separator 301, for example. If the pressure loss of the gas flowing in a part of the flow path (auxiliary flow path T63) close to the flow path is larger than the pressure loss of the gas flowing in the other flow paths (main flow path), It is preferable to construct in That is, the adjusting unit 401 is configured to control the cross-sectional area of at least a part of the flow paths (auxiliary flow path T63) relatively close to the inflow ports (for example, the first cathode side inlet and the second cathode side inlet). The cross sectional area of the gas flowing in the flow path (main flow path) is made larger.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell, the amount of the cathode gas CG supplied to the end of the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M is equalized to the amount of the cathode gas CG supplied to the central portion of the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M. be able to. Therefore, the unit structure of the fuel cell heats the cathode gas CG supplied to the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M and rapidly starts (warms up) the temperature of the cathode gas CG at the end of the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M. The gradient can be relaxed (preventing excessive thermal stress). Therefore, the unit structure of the fuel cell can efficiently start up (warm air) efficiently while suppressing the influence of the thermal stress on the components involved in the warm air, and sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

The unit structure of the fuel cell is, for example, relative to at least the inlets (for example, the cathode side first inlet and the cathode side second inlet) among the plurality of flow paths facing the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M in the separator 301, for example. If the pressure loss of the gas flowing in a part of the flow path (auxiliary flow path T63) close to the current flow path is smaller than the pressure loss of the gas flowing in the other flow paths (main flow path), It is preferable to construct in That is, the adjustment unit 401 is configured to reduce the pressure loss of at least a part of the flow paths (auxiliary flow path T63) relatively close to the inflow ports (for example, the first cathode side inlet and the second cathode side inlet). Make it larger than the pressure loss of the gas flowing in the flow path (main flow path).

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell, the amount of the cathode gas CG supplied to the end of the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M and the amount of the cathode gas CG supplied to the central portion of the cathode 101U of the power generation cell 101M are equalized. be able to. Therefore, the unit structure of the fuel cell can efficiently start up (warm air) efficiently while suppressing the influence of the thermal stress on the components involved in the warm air, and sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

Fourth Embodiment
The unit structure of the fuel cell according to the fourth embodiment is different from the fuel cells according to the first and third embodiments described above in the arrangement of the flow path portion and the supply portion (inlet and outlet) provided in the separator. .

27A shows an arrangement example 1 of the flow path portion 501L provided in the separator 501 and the supply portion (inlet and outlet). In the configuration of FIG. 27A, four anode side inlets 501r and three cathode side inlets 501t are alternately arranged on the upstream side of two pairs of flow path portions 501L (each facing the power generation cell 101M not shown) arranged side by side. Provided in Further, four cathode side outlets 501 u and three anode side outlets 501 s are alternately provided on the downstream side of the two sets of flow path portions 501 L arranged in the left and right direction. The separator 501 is configured such that the number of anode side outlets 501s is an odd number and the number of anode side inlets 501r is an even number. In the separator 501, an anode side inlet 501r and an anode side outlet 501s corresponding to the anode 101T of one power generation cell 101M, and a cathode side inlet 501t and a cathode side outlet 501u corresponding to the cathode 101U of the other power generation cell 101M. Are alternately provided adjacent to each other across the flow path portion 501L.

27B shows an arrangement example 2 of the flow path portion 502L provided in the separator 502 and the supply portion (inlet and outlet). In the configuration of FIG. 27B, four anode side inlets 502r and three cathode side inlets 502t are alternately arranged on the upstream side of three pairs of flow path portions 502L (each facing the power generation cell 101M not shown) arranged side by side. Provided in Further, four cathode side outlets 502 u and three anode side outlets 502 s are alternately provided on the downstream side of the three sets of flow path portions 502 L aligned in the left and right direction. The separator 502 has the same outer shape as the separator 501. The width of the flow path portion 502L of the separator 502 is smaller than the width of the flow path portion 501L of the separator 501 in the longitudinal direction Y.

The operation and effect of the fourth embodiment described above will be described.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell, for example, the supply unit provided in the separator 501 is, for example, on the anode side, with the number of one of the anode side inlet 501r and the anode side outlet 501s (anode side outlet 501s) being an odd number. It is preferable to set the number of the other of the inflow port 501r and the anode side outflow port 501s (anode side inflow port 501r) to an even number.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell, for example, by alternately providing the anode side inlet 501 r and the anode side outlet 501 s with the flow path portion 501 L interposed, pressure loss of the gas flowing through the plurality of flow paths is equalized. The variations in the respective gases flowing through the plurality of flow paths can be suppressed. That is, the unit structure of the fuel cell can equalize the amount of gas supplied to the end of the power generation cell 101M and the amount of gas supplied to the central portion of the power generation cell 101M. Therefore, the unit structure of the fuel cell can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

In the unit structure of the fuel cell, for example, the separator 501 corresponds to the anode side inlet 501r and the anode side outlet 501s of the supply unit corresponding to the anode 101T of one power generation cell 101M and the cathode 101U of the other power generation cell 101M. Preferably, the cathode side inlet 501 t and the cathode side outlet 501 u of the supply unit are alternately adjacent to each other.

According to the unit structure of the fuel cell, by alternately providing the inlet and the outlet on the anode side and the cathode side, the pressure loss of the gas flowing through the plurality of flow paths is equalized, and each flowing through the plurality of flow paths Can be suppressed. That is, the unit structure of the fuel cell can equalize the amount of gas supplied to the end of the power generation cell 101M and the amount of gas supplied to the central portion of the power generation cell 101M. Therefore, the unit structure of the fuel cell can sufficiently improve the power generation efficiency.

Fifth Embodiment
The unit structure of the fuel cell according to the fifth embodiment is different from the fuel cells according to the first to fourth embodiments described above in the arrangement of the flow path part and the supply part (inlet and outlet) provided in the separator. .

As shown in FIGS. 28A to 28D, the adjustment units 201 to 203 can be applied to separators in which the flow path unit and the supply unit (inflow port and outflow port) are configured by various arrangements.

28A shows an arrangement example 1 of the flow path portion 602L and the supply portion (inflow port 602p and outflow port 602q) in the separator 602. FIG. The inflow port 602p and the outflow port 602q are included in a region where the flow path of the flow path portion 602L is extended, and are provided diagonally on the upstream side and the downstream side of the flow path portion 602L. FIG. 28A shows the main flow path S21 and the auxiliary flow paths T21 and T22 in the first arrangement example. The adjustment unit adjusts the amount of gas flowing in a part of the flow paths (auxiliary flow paths T21 and T22) relatively close to the inflow port 602p and the outflow port 602q among the plurality of flow paths, and the respective flow paths are adjusted. Control the variation of the gas flowing through the

28B shows an arrangement example 2 of the flow path portion 612L and the supply portion (the inlet 612p and the outlet 612q) in the separator 612. FIG. The inlet 612p and the outlet 612q are provided diagonally on the upstream side and the downstream side of the flow passage portion 612L in a state of being separated from the region where the flow passage of the flow passage portion 612L is extended. FIG. 28B shows the main flow path S31 and the auxiliary flow paths T31 and T32 in the arrangement example 2. The adjustment unit adjusts the amount of gas flowing in a part of the flow paths (auxiliary flow paths T31 and T32) relatively close to the inflow port 612p and the outflow port 612q among the plurality of flow paths, and the respective flow paths are adjusted. Control the variation of the gas flowing through the

FIG. 28C shows an arrangement example 3 of the flow path portion 622L and the supply portion (a pair of inlets 622p and outlets 622q) in the separator 622. The pair of inflow ports 622p is included in a region where the flow path of the flow path portion 622L is extended, and is provided at both upstream sides of the flow path portion 622L. The outlet 622 q is included in an extended region of the flow path in the flow path portion 622 L, and is provided at the center on the downstream side of the flow path portion 622 L. FIG. 28C shows the main flow path S41 and the auxiliary flow paths T41 and T42 in the arrangement example 3. The adjustment unit adjusts the amount of gas flowing in a part of the flow paths (auxiliary flow paths T41 and T42) relatively close to the pair of inflow ports 622p among the flow paths, and flows in each flow path Reduce the variation of gas.

FIG. 28D shows an arrangement example 4 of the flow path portion 632L and the supply portion (a pair of inlet 632p and outlet 632q) provided in the separator 632. The pair of inlets 632p are provided at both upstream ends of the flow path portion 632L in a state of being separated from the extended region of the flow path of the flow path portion 632L. The outlet 632 q is included in an extended region of the flow path of the flow path portion 632 L, and is provided at the center on the downstream side of the flow path portion 632 L. FIG. 28D shows the main flow path S51 and the auxiliary flow paths T51 and T52 in the arrangement example 4. The adjustment unit adjusts the amount of gas flowing in a part of the flow paths (auxiliary flow paths T51 and T52) relatively close to the pair of inflow ports 632p among the plurality of flow paths, and flows in each flow path Reduce the variation of gas.

The unit structure of the fuel cell of the fifth embodiment described above is applicable to various configurations as shown in FIG. 28A, FIG. 28B, FIG. 28C and FIG. 28D.

Besides, the present invention can be variously modified based on the configuration described in the claims, and they are also within the scope of the present invention.

In the first to fifth embodiments, the unit structure of the fuel cell has been described as a unit structure applied to a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), but a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC, It may be configured as a unit structure applied to Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell), phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC, Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell), or molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC, Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell). That is, the unit structure of the fuel cell is, in addition to a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), a solid polymer membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), a phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC), or a molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) Can be applied to the unit structure of

In the first to fifth embodiments, although the plurality of flow paths provided in the flow path portion have been described as a plurality of spaces obtained by physically dividing each flow path by the concavo-convex shape, each flow path is physically separated. You may comprise as one space, without dividing.

In the first to fifth embodiments, the supply unit on the cathode side has been described as being open in the fuel cell, but may be configured as a supply unit on the anode side.

The unit structure of the fuel cell may be configured by appropriately combining the specifications of the first to fifth embodiments.

100 fuel cells,
100M cell stack assembly,
100S stack,
100T cell unit,
100U conjugate,
100P upper module unit,
100Q central module unit,
100R lower module unit,
100 U units,
101 Metal support cell assembly,
101M power generation cell,
101N metal support cell,
101S electrolyte,
101T anode (fuel electrode),
101U cathode (oxidizer electrode),
101V support metal,
101 W cell frame,
101k opening,
101p first extension,
101 q second extension portion,
101r third extension,
101s fourth extension,
101t fifth extension,
102 separators,
102 L channel part,
102p outer edge,
102q groove,
102x flat area,
102y anode side projection,
102z cathode side projection,
103 current collection auxiliary layer,
104 sealing member,
105 module ends,
106 upper collector plate,
107 lower collector plate,
108 lower end plate,
109 upper end plate,
110 air shelters,
111 external manifold,
101a, 102a, 105a, 107a, 108a, 111a first anode side inlet,
101b, 102b, 105b, 107b, 111b, 108b anode side second inlet,
101c, 102c, 105c, 107c, 111c, 108c anode side third inlet,
101d, 102d, 108d, 107d, 111d, 105d anode side first outlet,
101e, 102e, 105e, 107e, 111e, 108e anode side second outlet,
101f, 108f, 102f, 105f, 107f, 111f cathode side first inlet,
101 g, 102 g, 105 g, 107 g, 108 g, 111 g cathode side second inlet,
101h, 102h, 111h, 105h, 107h, 108h cathode side first outlet,
101i, 102i, 105i, 107i, 108i, 111i cathode side second outlet,
101j, 102j, 105j, 107j, 108j, 111j cathode side third outlet,
112 cover,
113, 114, 115 Sealant,
116 spring member,
116a base material,
116b standing piece,
200, 201, 202, 203 adjustment unit,
301, 302, 303, 304 separators,
301L, 302L, 303L, 304L flow path portion,
301s, 302s, 303s, 304s convex portions,
401, 402, 403, 404 Adjustment unit,
501,502 separators,
501L, 502L flow path part,
501r, 502r anode side inlet,
501s, 502s anode side outlet,
501t, 502t cathode side inlet,
501u, 502u cathode side outlet,
602, 612, 622, 632 separators,
602L, 612L, 622L, 632L flow path portion,
602p, 612p, 622p, 632p inlets,
602q, 612q, 622q, 632q outlet,
S11, S21, S31, S41, S51 main flow path,
T11, T12, T21, T22, T31, T32, T41, T42, T51, T52, T63, T73, T83, T93 Auxiliary flow path,
V junction line,
AG anode gas,
CG cathode gas,
X (for fuel cell) short direction,
Y (for fuel cell) longitudinal direction,
Z Stacking direction (for fuel cells).

Claims

A power generation cell that generates electricity from gas supplied by sandwiching an electrolyte between a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode;
A separator which is provided between the power generation cell and the power generation cell and which separates the adjacent power generation cells;
A flow path portion formed of a plurality of flow paths formed between the separator and the separator and supplying the gas to the power generation cell;
A plurality of gas inlets for causing the gas to flow into the flow passage;
A plurality of gas outlets for discharging the gas from the flow passage;
An adjusting unit that adjusts the amount of the gas flowing through the plurality of flow paths,
In the fuel cell, the adjustment unit reduces variation in flow among the plurality of flow paths by adjusting pressure loss in the flow path portion formed between the plurality of gas inlets or between the plurality of gas outlets. Unit structure.
The unit structure of a fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of said gas inlets and a plurality of said gas outlets are made different.
3. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein an auxiliary flow path is formed between opposing surfaces of the plurality of power generation cells by arranging the plurality of power generation cells so as to face each other on the same plane. Unit structure.
The unit structure of a fuel cell according to claim 3, wherein an auxiliary flow path is formed between the non-opposing surface of at least one of the power generation cells and the cell frame end of the adjustment unit.
The unit structure of a fuel cell according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the adjustment unit comprises a separate control mechanism for adjusting the amount of the gas in the auxiliary flow passage.
The unit structure of a fuel cell according to claim 5, wherein the control mechanism controls the gas so as to increase or decrease the pressure loss of the gas.
The fuel cell according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein one of the gas inlet and the gas outlet is an odd number, and the other of the gas inlet and the gas outlet is an even number. Unit structure.
The gas inlet and the gas outlet corresponding to the fuel electrode of one of the power generation cells, and the gas inlet and the gas outlet corresponding to the oxidant electrode of the other power generation cell are alternately arranged. The unit structure of a fuel cell according to any one of claims 1 to 7, which is adjacent to each other.
A control method of a unit structure of a fuel cell which supplies gas from a gas inlet to a flow passage formed in the separator to a power generation cell sandwiched between separators, and discharges the gas from the gas outlet to generate electric power. There,
In the same plane of the power generation cell, the flow of the gas supplied from the gas inlet is at least two of a main flow flowing through the flow passage portion of the separator and an auxiliary flow flowing between the plurality of power generation cells. A control method of a unit structure of a fuel cell, comprising dividing into two streams and adjusting a pressure loss of the gas in the auxiliary stream to make the distribution of the gas in the same plane in the main stream uniform.